Toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis infection is usually subclinical but is very significant due to its zoonotic potential

Alternative names: Toxoplasma gondii

Information

Toxoplasmosis infection usually occurs through contaminated food or water. Transmission of this protozoa can also occur in the uterus. Cats can transmit the parasite through their faeces, contaminating feed and infecting pigs.

 

Symptoms

Symptoms are usually subclinical.

Sows

  • Abortion.
  • Overall reproductive failure.
  • Stillbirths.

Pigs that were infected in utero

  • Diarrhea.
  • Lack of coordination.
  • Seizures.
  • Weak, have difficulty moving.
  • Cough.

 

Causes / Contributing Factors

  • Cats housed with pigs.

 

Diagnosis

  • Serological tests and histological analysis of tissues.

 

Control/Prevention

  • There is no treatment.
  • Do not allow cats near pigs.

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